FLO: Access All Areas
“I would like to introduce you to a tenacious trio of talented young ladies” - Cynthia Erivo couldn’t have said it any better on the FLO intro.
I have been waiting for this album to come out and no this isn’t because of Cardboard Box, because if I’m honest I really disliked that song. However, since then they have grown and developed into an r’n’b girl group that should be praised.
This album couldn’t have come at a better time - the group take us through a journey of early 2000s inspired rnb flavour and if you grew up liking singers such as Ciara, Christina Milan, Aaliyah and groups like Sugababes, SWV and Blaque, you’ll definitely fall in love with FLO.
The trio’s debut album really gives me a strong message, which is that modern rnb girl groups are soft and determined.
We’re given a range of songs that go from bossy affirmations such as In my bag which feature none other than the bad bitch affirmation girlie herself, GloRilla to smooth, sensual bedroom vibes with songs like, soft (which is one of my absolute faves). While I didn’t like every song on the album, as a few were skippable, the group continued to remind me that the vocals were undeniable and their harmonies are tight in every single way - think SWV on the Arsenio Hall show - SENSATIONALLY TIGHT. Their blend is magical and is something that only a true artist can do.
I really enjoy that you get to hear Renee, Stella and Jorja separately. Everyone gets a part, everyone gets an ad-lib, everyone gets a run - each woman is highlighted vocally and not one of them disappoint. The song writing on this album’s sublime and MNEK really put his whole foot in this as the primary collaborator - didn’t miss a beat!
I was caught on Shoulda woulda coulda as I was reminded of that Timberland inspired production, which we know ruled a certain period in our lives and still does - such a nice touch.
I do wish that they had added a bit more layer to certain songs such as on & on as I feel it would’ve taken the chorus to a whole new level and I’m not a big fan of how the song the album ended on - I’m just a girl (while it has a strong message), left me wanting more and maybe that was the intention. I just like to listen to an album that feels completely rounded off. Minor detail.
All in all, for a debut LP the group have delivered something that was missing in the industry - three beautiful, talented, confident, headstrong, soft black/mixed women who want to leave their mark. A solid start and great foundation. If they can go from Cardboard Box to AAA then I am truly excited to see where they take this to!
Rating: 4.5
Top Songs:
In My Bag
Walk Like This
Soft
Bending my Rules
Caught Up
On & On
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